FR2972069A1 - Method for increasing brightness and contrast of digital image acquired from digital camera using personal computer, involves displaying initial image processing result on display unit by displaying initial image and processed image - Google Patents

Abstract

The method involves displaying a set of processes (100) required for processing an initial image on a display unit i.e. screen, of a remote terminal that communicates with a selection server of an image processing device. Processing information relative to one of the processes selected by a remote user is received (200). The initial image is processed (300) by a processing server i.e. personal computer, based on the selected process. An initial image processing result is displayed (400) on the display unit by displaying the initial image and the processed image. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) an image processing device (2) a computer program product comprising instructions to perform a method for processing an image.

Description

IMAGE PROCESSING DEVICE AND METHOD

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to the general technical field of processing at least one image.

PRESENTATION OF THE PRIOR ART For several years, digital cameras - that is to say comprising a photosensitive electronic sensor - have appeared on the market. The use of a digital camera has many advantages for the user. In particular, it allows the latter to view on a control screen the quality of the acquired image. It is also possible for a user having processing means - such as for example a personal computer - to "graphically retouch" the digital images acquired by implementing processing on said digital images. Graphic retouching consists of a series of manual manipulations (for example performed by a practitioner) or automatic (for example by software tools) to improve the quality of an image (improvement of sharpness, colors, contrast of the image). Graphic retouching therefore requires the availability of hardware, software and human resources.

There are many graphic editing software for processing digital images acquired with a digital camera. These software allow a user to perform more and more efficient treatments. However, as the performance of these software tools increases, the complexity of using these software increases.

Retouching an image using an image processing software therefore requires a detailed knowledge of the operating mode of the software used. This knowledge of the software may take several years to acquire, and is different for each graphic editing software.

Thus, even if the tools to edit images are more accessible to users, the user continues to call on professionals - such as graphic studios, professional photographers, etc. - to retouch his images because he does not have sufficient knowledge to perform these graphic retouching by himself. An object of the present invention is to provide a device and an image processing method allowing a user to edit an image simply, quickly and efficiently.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

For this purpose, the invention proposes a method for processing at least one image, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: displaying on display means a plurality of available treatments for processing said at least one so-called initial image, - reception of processing information relating to at least one treatment selected by a remote user, - processing by processing means, of said and at least one initial image according to said and at least one treatment selected by the user, - display of the result of the processing on the display means, said step of displaying the result comprising the display of the initial image and the display of the processed image. The step of displaying the initial image and the processed image allows the user to compare the two images. This allows the user to perceive the nature of the processing performed on the image, and to verify that the result obtained corresponds to what he wants. Advantageously, the implementation of an image processing is simplified and more intuitive than with the existing graphic editing software, for example by selecting a complex processing by activation of a virtual button displayed on the display means . Preferred but nonlimiting aspects of the device according to the invention are the following: the step of displaying the result comprises displaying the initial image on a first zone of the display means, and displaying the image processed on a second zone of the display means distinct from the first zone; the step of displaying the result comprises: displaying an enlarged portion of the initial image on a third zone of the display means; displaying the corresponding enlarged portion of the image processed on a fourth zone of the display means separate from the third zone; the third zone is at least partially included in the first zone and the fourth zone is at least partially included in the second zone; the third zone is separated from the first zone and the fourth zone is separated from the second zone; the method further comprises a step of receiving information relating to a selected region of the initial image or of the processed image, the enlarged portion displayed in the third and fourth zones being associated with said selected region; the method further comprises a step of moving the positions of the third and fourth zones on the display means as a function of the position of the selected region; the method comprises: receiving and storing a plurality of initial images to be processed, measuring the amount of computer data associated with the plurality of initial images, if the quantity of computer data is greater than a threshold, display a message on the display means. The invention also relates to an outstanding image processing device in that it comprises a selection server comprising means for: displaying, on display means, a plurality of available processes for the processing of said and at least one so-called initial image, o receiving and storing processing information relating to at least one treatment selected by a remote user, o processing the initial image according to the treatment selected by the user, o displaying the result of the processing on the display means, the display of the result including the display of the initial image and the display of the processed image. The invention also relates to a computer program product comprising program code instructions recorded on a medium that can be used in a computer, characterized in that it comprises instructions for implementing the method described above.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Other advantages and characteristics of the device and of the method according to the invention will emerge more clearly from the following description of several variant embodiments, given by way of non-limiting examples, from the attached drawings in which: Fig. 1 illustrates an embodiment of the image processing apparatus. Fig. 2 illustrates an embodiment of the image processing method. Figs. 3 and 4 illustrate examples of displaying the result of an image processing apparatus. treatment.

Detailed description of the invention

The device and method according to the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the figures. The device and method according to the invention allow a novice user in image processing to edit an image in a simple and intuitive manner.

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of the device according to the invention. The device comprises a selection server 1 able to communicate with one (or more) terminal (s) distant (s) 2a, 2b, 2c. Each terminal 2a, 2b, 2c comprises processing means, input means 21, display means 22, and transmission / reception means for communicating with the selection server 1 and possibly other terminals 2b, 2c. Each terminal or terminal can be fixed or mobile. Each terminal is for example a personal computer, a mobile phone, an electronic tablet (such as an IPADO), or any other type of terminal known to those skilled in the art.

The selection server 1 comprises input means, processing means, display means, storage means and transmission / reception means for communicating with each terminal. The selection server 1 is for example a personal computer for dialogue with the remote terminal (s) 2a, 2b, 2c.

The device may also comprise a processing server 3 intended to carry out one or more treatments on one or more images. The processing server 3 is for example a personal computer. The operating principle of the device illustrated in Figure 1 is as follows. A user uses a remote terminal 2a, 2b, 2c to communicate with the selection server 1. The selection server 1 transfers to the remote terminal 2a, 2b, 2c data relating to a choice of workable processes for retouching images. This data is displayed on the display means 22 of the remote terminal 2a, 2b, 2c. The user selects the treatment (s) he wishes to order. Data relating to the selected processing (s) are transferred from the remote terminal 2a, 2b, 2c to the selection server 1. The images to be processed are also transferred to the selection server 1. The selection server 1 associates the (or the) treatment (s) to be performed in each image. The selection server 1 then transfers the image (or images) to be processed as well as the data relating to the processing (s) to be performed to the processing server 3.

The processing server 3 processes the images according to the treatment (s) selected by the user. The processed images are transferred from the processing server 3 to the selection server 1 and stored in the storage means of the selection server 1.

The user can then download the processed images from the selection server 1 to the remote terminal 2a, 2b, 2c. Advantageously, the selection server 1 can simultaneously communicate with several respective remote terminals. An example embodiment of the image processing method will now be described in more detail. In the following description of FIG. 2, a user wishing to retouch a single initial image will be assumed. However, the reader will appreciate that the method described below works identically in the case where the user wishes to retouch several initial images.

With reference to FIG. 2, the method comprises a step of displaying a plurality of feasible treatments on the display means of a terminal. These treatments are proposed to the user for the graphic retouching of the initial image. Each treatment comprises a plurality of steps. These steps are implemented automatically. They do not require any settings on the part of the user. It does not know the sequence of steps that is implemented but only a description of the result obtained by applying the treatment to the initial image. An example of treatment is illustrated in Figure 3. This treatment allows the enhancement of the brightness and contrasts of the initial image. This processing includes the operations of: - duplicating the initial image to obtain a duplicate image, - modifying (for example increasing by 500/0) the contrast and brightness of the duplicated image to obtain a contrasted duplicate image, - superposing the initial image and the contrasted duplicate image to obtain a processed image.

These operations can be performed one or more times. This treatment enhances the colors and contrast of an initial image. An example of implementation of this processing using the ADOBE® PHOTOSHOP® CS 5 EXTENDED version is detailed in the section entitled "Appendix".

Other types of treatment are proposed to the user, for example the "portrait" treatment (ie attenuation of the wrinkles of the subjects of an initial image), the "shadow" treatment (recovery of information in the dark areas of the image). image), the "detail" processing (sharpening of the general sharpness level and increasing the details), the "noise reduction" processing (significant decrease of the noise level of the image, see total suppression), and any other type of treatment known to those skilled in the art. To allow the user an intuitive understanding of the nature of the proposed treatments, they can be displayed according to different variants on the display means. For example in an alternative embodiment, for each possible treatment, a processed image is illustrated on an area of the display means of the terminal. In another alternative embodiment, a processed image and the corresponding original image (i.e., the image before processing) are illustrated in two adjacent areas of the display means. Furthermore, a technical explanation of the improvements made to the original image can also be displayed on the display means. Finally, areas illustrating enlarged portions of the original image and / or the processed image may be provided on the display means of the terminal. This allows to visually illustrate the treatment performed. In another step of the method, the user selects the (or) treatment (s) he wishes to perform on the initial image, for example by activating a virtual button or any type of means known to those skilled in the art. to select a treatment. Advantageously, the user can select: - several different treatments to be implemented on the same image, - the same treatment to be implemented on several images, - several different treatments to be implemented on several images, each treatment being associated with a respective image. The user can also choose the file format in which he wants the processed image to be saved (JPEG, Raw, Bitmap, etc.).

The user sends the file of the initial image to be processed as well as the treatment (s) selected (s) to the selection server using the remote terminal 2a, 2b, 2c. The selection server 1 receives the data file of the initial image as well as the information relating to the treatment (s) selected (s) and stores them on the storage means. The selection server 1 transmits the initial image and the information relating to the treatment (s) selected (s) to the processing server 3 which processes the initial image.

Once the processing is done, the processing server 3 transfers the processed image to the selection server 1. The selection server 1 then displays the initial image and the processed image on the display means of the terminal. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the selection server 1 displays on the display means 22 of the terminal: - the initial image on a first zone 23, - the image processed on a second zone 24 distinct from the first zone 23. This allows the user to appreciate the quality of the processing performed by comparing the processed image with the initial image. In an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the selection server 1 also displays an enlarged portion of the initial images and processed in the third and fourth zones 25, 26 of the display means. This allows the user to compare the initial and processed images in detail. The magnified portion illustrated in the third and fourth zones 25, 26 may be predetermined by the selection server. This makes it possible to limit the amount of data exchanged between the selection server and the terminal for displaying the result of the processing. Alternatively, the enlarged portion illustrated in the third and fourth areas may be user-selectable, for example by moving a cursor (such as a mouse pointer) on the initial image displayed in the first area or on the screen. processed image displayed in the second area. This allows the user to accurately check the quality of processing on different regions of the image. An exemplary implementation of this optional feature of the invention is described in the section entitled "Appendix". The third and fourth zones 25, 26 may be partially or totally superimposed on the first and second zones 23, 24. This makes it possible to limit the risks of piracy of the processed image by preventing the user from fully selecting the image processed without the have ordered. The third and fourth zones 25, 26 may also be non-superposed (ie separated) from the first and second zones 23, 24. This allows a better visibility of the images illustrated in the first and second zones 23, 24. The third and fourth zones 25 , 26 can be fixed: that is to say that their respective position on the display means is invariant. This makes it possible on the one hand to facilitate the display and on the other hand to maintain a sector of the first and second zones (and therefore of the initial and processed images) hidden, especially in the case where the third and fourth zones 25, 26 are partially superimposed on the first and second zones 23, 24. The third and fourth zones 25, 26 can also be movable: that is to say that the position of the third (respectively fourth) zone varies according to the position for example a cursor on the first (or second) zone in which is displayed the initial image (respectively processed image). This allows the user to check the quality of the processing over the entire image, especially when the third and fourth areas are partially or totally superimposed on the first and second areas.

In the case where the user transfers several initial images to the selection server 1, the latter estimates the amount of computer data associated with the data file of the initial images. If the amount of computer data is greater than a threshold, the selection server displays a message on the display means to inform the user that the amount of data to be processed is too important, and invites the user to reduce the number images to process. This allows you to share hardware resources among multiple users. Those skilled in the art will have understood that many modifications can be made to the device and the method described above without physically going out of the new teachings presented here. It is therefore obvious that the examples which have just been given are only particular illustrations that are in no way limiting. For example, the above-described device for welding one (or more) film web (s) along transverse and longitudinal welds (s) to make a packaging package can also be used to make ultrasound cuts.

Annex A. Example of treatment

Dramatic accentuation of the brightness and contrasts: - Opening the JPEGO file of the initial image, - Using the brightness and contrast adjustment tool (in the "Image" tab of PhotoshopO, select "Adjustment" then " Brightness and contrast "), - + 50% increase in brightness, and + 50% contrast, to obtain a final image, - Duplicate the final image and change the display mode from" normal mode "to "Superimposed mode", - Repetition of the previous operation several times and superposition of the intermediate images to the initial image to accentuate the colors and the lights. The processed image can be saved in compressed Jpeg format for the web (optimized compression). For a moderate file size a quality at 60 is sufficient. The type of encoding must be optimized for the web. The color mode of the image can be maintained in sRGB for Internet compatibility. Since editing is a destructive technique of information, it is normal for the processed image file (JPEG) to be smaller than the original image file. In the same way the intermediate image, although more pleasing to the eye, contains less information. For this reason, even strong compression is enough to preserve the details. b. Example of Implementing Cursor Displacement in the Initial or Processed Image to Display an Enlarged Portion On a Web page, two preview images are arranged side by side, an identical size. On the left, the original image, on the right, the processed image. When the user hovers over one of these two images with the mouse cursor, third and fourth smaller areas appear under each of them, making it possible to visualize an enlarged portion (for example in real size) of the preview image region designated by the cursor. In the third and fourth viewing areas of the enlarged portion of the image, the center of the magnified portion illustrated corresponds to the point designated by the cursor that is positioned on the corresponding preview image. When the mouse is moved, the enlarged portion of the image slides into the preview area so that its center matches at all times the point designated by the cursor on the corresponding preview image, proportionately. Regardless of the preview image overflown, a second cursor is positioned on the other preview image, transposed to the same coordinates relative to the latter than the cursor hovering over the first. In case of movement of the mouse, this second cursor follows the movement of the first, in real time, on the second preview image. Thus, the third and fourth viewing zones of the enlarged portion at any time illustrate the same region of the initial and processed preview images, at the same coordinates relative to the latter, all proportionally.

Determining the coordinates of the mouse cursor on the previewed rollover image as well as calculating any coordinate on the second preview image and on the viewing area of the full size image is done using JavaScript code, executed by the user's web browser. Example: we have two preview images with a size of 400 pixels wide and 600 pixels high, an initial image sent by the user with a size of 800 pixels wide and 1200 pixels high, and an image processed in x2 magnification of a size of 1600 pixels in width and 2400 pixels in height. Move the mouse cursor to the second area showing the processed image. A second cursor - identical to the first cursor - appears on the first zone illustrating the initial image, at the same relative coordinates as the first cursor with respect to a reference point of the first and second zones. For example it is assumed that the upper corners to the left of the first and second areas are the origins of the coordinates of the first and second sliders. If the first slider is 100 pixels to the right of the left edge and 100 pixels to the bottom of the top edge of the second area, then the second slider will be placed 100 pixels to the right of the left edge and 100 pixels to the bottom edge superior of the first zone. vs. Example of implementation of the process

Choice of the main treatment: The client chooses a "treatment" on a selection screen showing him the result of the treatment and / or a comparison image presenting a pre-treatment image and a post-treatment image. The processing choices are accompanied by optional technical explanations, a tariff grid clearly visible in euros. Optionally the customer can choose a language of use (FR / US). The language of use may be detected according to the user's IP or forced by the user's choice. This data can be saved on a site memory. The treatment choices can also be accompanied by a demonstration on an image (with a display of the image before treatment and after treatment). The image before treatment can appear on request or flyover 25 or on the side. Rather than a price per image processed, the price grid can indicate a price by weight that is to say according to the amount of data processed (for example treatment of 50 megabytes for 10 euros, etc.).

30 Choosing Quality Options / Format Type The client is prompted to choose the output file type.

Ancillary Services Longer download options (file retention time on the system before self destruction) for more convenience.

Downloading processed image files The customer is invited to select their photos and download them on the site. A download bar appears or any other visual means allowing him to visualize the progress of the download as well as a processing bar.

Validation of the results The customer is presented with the resulting complete or partial treatments according to the quantity of images sent (for example the first 50 processed images are displayed). By default all the results (i.e. processed image) are considered valid and already registered in a basket of the user account or prerecorded in a basket of "visitor". The customer chooses himself to remove the images he does not decide to buy. To make the purchase choice, the customer can view the image before and after the treatment. He can also make a precise enlargement showing him at real size a portion of the two images. This phase of visualization makes it possible to prevent the piracy (thumbnail damaging the image, or zoom too precise to reconstitute the complete image). Once validated the user is invited to pay the treatments. In the case of a refusal of payment and / or a closing of the customer account, all initial and processed images are destroyed by the service.

Electronic delivery Once the payment has been made, a link will be made available for downloading the processed images. This link is sent directly to the user account mailbox and simultaneously available on the user account.

Claims (10)

1. A method of processing at least one image characterized in that it comprises the steps of: - displaying (100) on display means (22) of a plurality of available processing for the treatment of said and at least one so-called initial image, - reception (200) of processing information relating to at least one treatment selected by a remote user, - processing (300) by processing means (3), said and at least one an initial image according to said and at least one treatment selected by the user, - display (400) of the result of the processing on the display means (22), said step of displaying the result including the display of the initial image and display of the processed image. 2. Treatment method according to the preceding claim, wherein the step of displaying the result comprises displaying the initial image on a first zone (23) of the display means (22), and the display the processed image on a second area (24) of the display means (22) separate from the first area (23). The treatment method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the step of displaying (400) the result comprises: - displaying an enlarged portion of the initial image on a third zone (25) display means (22); displaying the corresponding enlarged portion of the processed image on a fourth area (26) of the display means (22) separate from the third area (25). 15 4. Treatment method according to the preceding claim, wherein the third zone (25) is at least partially included in the first zone (23) and the fourth zone (26) is at least partially included in the second zone (24). The treatment method according to claim 3, wherein the third zone (25) is separated from the first zone (23) and the fourth zone is separated from the second zone (24). 10 6. Treatment method according to one of the three preceding claims further comprising a step of receiving information relating to a selected region of the initial image or the processed image, the enlarged portion displayed in the third and fourth zones (25, 26) being associated with said selected region. 15 7. Treatment method according to the preceding claim, which further comprises a step of moving the positions of the third and fourth zones (25, 26) on the display means (22) according to the position of the selected region. 8. Processing method according to one of the preceding claims, which comprises: - receiving and storing a plurality of initial images to be processed, - measuring the amount of computer data associated with the plurality of initial images. if the amount of computer data is greater than a threshold, displaying a message on the display means (22). 9. An image processing device characterized in that it comprises: a selection server (1) comprising means for: displaying, on display means, a plurality of available processes for the processing of said and at least one so-called initial image, receiving and storing processing information relating to at least one processing selected by a remote user, processing the initial image according to the processing selected by the user, displaying the result processing on the display means, the result display comprising displaying the initial image and displaying the processed image. A computer program product comprising program code instructions recorded on a medium usable in a computer, characterized in that it comprises instructions for carrying out the method according to one of claims 1 to 8.